So, you’ve been dating your significant other for a while and you’re pretty sure they’re going to pop the question soon. Congratulations! An engagement is an exciting time in your life. But before you start planning the wedding of your dreams, there are a few things you should do to prepare for this next big step. Here’s a quick guide on how to get ready for an engagement.

1. Talk about Your Expectations

Before you can start planning for your future together, it’s important to have a discussion with your partner about what you both want out of the engagement and marriage. Do you want a long engagement or a short one? Are you hoping to have a destination wedding or a more traditional ceremony? What kind of budget are you working with? By having this conversation early on, you can avoid any disagreements or surprises down the road.

2. Get Your Finances in Order

Weddings can be expensive, so it’s important to start thinking about your financial situation as soon as possible. If you’re hoping to finance the majority of the wedding yourselves, start saving now! Start by setting up a separate savings account that you can both contribute to each month. If you’re not sure how much you’ll need to save, take a look at some average wedding costs in your area and start from there.

3. Do Your Research on the Ring

When you’re ready to pop the question, it’s time to start shopping for an engagement ring. But with all the different styles and options out there, how do you choose the right one? Budget is always going to be important, but so is the style of ring your partner would like. You’ll also want to choose where you’ll get it from, so things like this jewelry exchange review will come in handy. Then you’ll want to think about the 4 Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Keep these things in mind when shopping for an engagement ring, and you’re sure to find the perfect one.

4. Start Planning the Guest List

Finally, this may seem like a small detail, but it’s actually one of the most important aspects of wedding planning! The guest list will determine everything from the size of the venue you’ll need to how much food and drink you’ll have to order. Once you have a rough idea of how many people will be attending, you can start looking at venues and getting a better sense of what kind of wedding you’ll be able to have.

Congratulations—You’re Ready to Get Engaged!

An engagement is an exciting time in your life! It can seem like a lot to plan and think about (along with the wedding)—but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that everything goes smoothly and that you’re fully prepared for this next big step.